June Thursday Thinkers series to focus on trauma, crisis response in recognition of PTSD awareness
In recognition of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month, this month’s Thursday Thinkers discussion will feature presentations on aspects of trauma moderated by the Alia Henton-Williams, manager of City’s Crisis Intervention Services Unit, which includes the Person in Crisis Team.
“Trauma is an underlying factor among some of the most difficult challenges we confront on a daily basis, including substance abuse, violent crime and chronic homelessness,” said Mayor Malik D. Evans. “By bringing attention to this reality we can encourage those who experience these conditions to seek proper and timely treatment and break the destructive cycles that rob them of their full potential. We must let our residents know that it’s okay not to be okay so they can begin the healing process and live their best lives.”
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is an adverse mental health condition that can develop in people who experience a shocking, frightening, or dangerous event. Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) can develop in people who experience chronic or serial trauma.
A growing body of research is finding that low-income and minority populations experience PTSD and CPSTD symptoms and related negative health outcomes at higher rates than the national average. The City’s Person in Crisis mobile support team seeks to reverse the effects of trauma by providing trained social workers as a non-law enforcement response to calls for mental and behavioral health crises.
Thursday Thinkers: Insights into Rochester is an adult-discussion forum offered in a different City R-Center each month to help residents learn about community resources and programs that can help them lead successful lives.
The June Thursday Thinkers series will be held from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Trenton and Pamela Jackson R-Center, 485 N. Clinton Ave., with the following topics and presenting partners:
- June 6: Trauma of the Criminal Justice System: Learn how recognize the effects of trauma associated with incarceration and other components of the criminal justice system and how to incorporate treatment into re-entry and restoration. Presenting Partner: Judicial Process Commission.
- June 13: Helping Veterans Heal from Trauma: Learn how veterans’ organizations are leading the fight against trauma with essential resources and research. Gain insight into support systems for veterans and the latest advancements toward healing. Presenting Partner: Veterans Outreach Center.
- June 20: Generational Trauma: Learn about the intergenerational impacts of structural racism and cumulative trauma, how they affect our health and the health of our community, and what we can do about it. Presenting Partner: Common Ground Health.
Visit this page to learn more about the City’s Person in Crisis Team. To request a response from Person in Crisis Team counselors, call 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
